The Olorunmola Empowerment Foundation (OEF), a Non-Governmental Organization, has identified the high rate of unemployment as a key factor contributing to the growing insecurity in Nigeria. According to the foundation, the absence of economic opportunities has left many Nigerians vulnerable to criminal activities.
In a bid to combat this issue, the OEF has empowered over 1,000 residents across the 13 local government areas of Nasarawa State with starter packs, including sewing and grinding machines, as well as cash grants, to support them in becoming self-reliant. The foundation, which aims to bridge educational gaps and provide empowerment irrespective of age or gender, seeks to equip individuals with the tools and skills necessary for meaningful community development.
At the foundation’s inaugural ceremony held in Keffi, Nasarawa State, on Tuesday, OEF founder Olorunmola Kolade explained that the initiative is designed to address the pressing needs of various demographic groups and foster positive change in Nigeria. Kolade emphasized that idleness has become a major driver of insecurity and that equipping people with the right skills can help mitigate this problem.
“There are countless idle hands across our country, which has significantly fueled insecurity. Our mission is to reach as many people as our resources will allow, providing them with training and opportunities that will transform their lives,” Kolade said. “Through this empowerment initiative, we aim to disengage individuals from criminal activities and build a network of empowered people who will, in turn, uplift others.”
Kolade, who also has ties to the mining industry, highlighted that the empowerment program is intended to curb the migration of young people from rural areas to city centers, noting that not everyone is suited for white-collar jobs. He also outlined future plans for the foundation, including providing relief materials to internally displaced persons, setting up free medical care teams, and installing solar-powered boreholes in areas lacking access to clean drinking water.
Reflecting on his personal journey, Kolade shared that he was raised by subsistence farmers and faced numerous challenges growing up in a disadvantaged environment. Despite these obstacles, he pursued education and ultimately found success. His experiences in rural communities, particularly in the mining sector, exposed him to the hardships endured by many Nigerians, motivating him to launch the OEF.
“My exploration of Nigeria’s vast rural areas revealed the dire conditions people are living in. I saw children and youths suffering from extreme poverty, many without access to basic healthcare or education,” Kolade recounted. “It became clear to me that these communities desperately need help, and I feel both morally and professionally obligated to extend my Corporate Social Responsibility to those who are vulnerable.”
Ahmed Tijjani, Senior Legislative Aide to the Senate President, attended the event as the special guest of honor. He praised Kolade’s efforts, commending the OEF for giving back to society and uplifting vulnerable communities. “I thank you for bringing joy to so many families today. This empowerment will not only help them establish businesses but also enable them to contribute to societal growth,” Tijjani stated.
He also encouraged affluent Nigerians to support the needy in their communities, stressing that such acts of generosity could significantly alleviate social and economic challenges.
Pheobe Yakubu, one of the beneficiaries, expressed her gratitude to the OEF on behalf of the others, pledging to use the resources provided to improve their livelihoods.
The event, which was attended by several dignitaries and traditional rulers, saw the distribution of various items, including sewing machines, grinding machines, sprayers, chemicals, bags of rice, and cash grants totaling ₦10 million.
